Pathology Handbook

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Arsenic Tissue

Alternative Names:

Tissue Arsenic

Laboratory:

Clinical Biochemistry

Test Code:

TIARS

Specimen Types:

Tissue

Container Types:

Fresh Tissue Pot/Pail (no Formalin)
Plain 70mL pot

Collection & Request Instructions:

Samples are collected either as a core or wedge biopsy. The sample may be stored dry in a suitable polystyrene container at freezer temps(-20)

or may be fixed with formalin and stored at room temp.

Samples may also be delivered embedded in paraffin.

10 mm core biopsy preferred

Method: ICP-MS

Specimen Types can be hair (0.5 g (10 cm lock) or nail clippings ( all 10 nails) Pot, Plain 70 mL pot

Hair: Gather a lock of hair the width of the pencil from the back of head. Cut hair near scalp, cutting at least 10 centimetres. Do not cut scalp or pull hair from scalp. Head hair is the preferred specimen. If head hair is not available, pubic, beard, mustache or chest hair is acceptable if enough quantity can be obtained. Beard trimmings or razor clippings are not acceptable.
Nails: Cut all 10 nails, either fingernails or toenails. Do not place nails in same container as hair. Nails must be free of polish or testing will be canceled.

Transport Instructions between Sites and/or Laboratories:

Room Temperature

External Laboratory:

NSW Health Pathology, Royal North Shore Hospital

Additional Notes:

Referral Lab Contact Details:

Ross Wenzel
Senior Scientist, Trace Elements, RNSH | NSW Health Pathology

Trace Elements Laboratory, Level 5 Acute Services Building, Royal North Shore Hospital

Pacific Highway, St Leonards, NSW 2065
Tel (02) 9926 4157 | Fax (02) 9926 4087 | ross.wenzel@health.nsw.gov.au